Virginia Tech football: Sophomore linebacker suffers ‘long-term’ injury

BLACKSBURG, VA - Gabe Williams, the highly touted sophomore linebacker for the Virginia Tech Hokies, has suffered a "long-term injury" and will be out indefinitely. Williams, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound Bowie, Md., native, was considered a future star for the Hokies as a freshman in 2024, appearing in two games before suffering a season-ending injury against Clemson.

Tragically, Williams lost his father, Chance, just one month after his injury. Despite the setback, Hokie Nation rallied behind Williams and hoped for a successful comeback in 2025. However, Williams recently suffered the long-term injury, leaving the Hokies and head coach James Franklin in a difficult position. Franklin expressed the impact of losing Williams, emphasizing the need for young players to step up and create position flexibility.

The team's defensive coordinator, Brent Pry, also noted the importance of adjusting their game plan due to the absence of Williams. Covil, a 5-foot-10, 196-pound transfer from Clemson, is expected to take on a more significant role in the upcoming season, along with other players like Noah Chambers and Kaleb Spencer. The Hokies' wish is for Williams to make a speedy recovery.